Demna’s Departure from Balenciaga at Paris Haute Couture Week

Georgian designer Demna is set to make a memorable exit after a decade at Balenciaga during Paris Haute Couture Week, commencing Monday. This week will also mark the debut of the new chief creative at Maison Margiela.

Renowned for his audacious designs and occasional controversies, Demna will present his final collection on Wednesday, expected to be one of the week’s standout moments.

It’s essential to note that Haute Couture Week is distinct from Paris Fashion Week. It occurs solely in Paris—January showcases spring-summer creations, while July focuses on autumn-winter styles.

This exceptional French event celebrates meticulously crafted, one-of-a-kind garments intended for red-carpet appearances and prestigious galas.

At 44, Demna has garnered acclaim from millennials and Gen-Z stars, including Kim Kardashian and Charli XCX. He has also been entrusted with revitalizing Gucci’s image under Kering CEO François-Henri Pinault.

Having significantly boosted sales at Balenciaga, noted for high-profile items like a $2,000 “Ikea” bag, he is currently honored with the exhibition “Balenciaga by Demna” at Kering’s Paris headquarters.

Following Demna’s departure, Italian designer Pierpaolo Piccioli will take the reins, presenting his first collection during Paris Women’s Fashion Week in October.

Opening Shows

As the week unfolds, Schiaparelli will kick off the Couture Week, with additional presentations from designers like Iris Van Herpen—returning after a year-long hiatus—Georges Hobeika, Imane Ayissi, Rahul Mishra, Julie de Libran, and Giambattista Valli.

After Demna’s farewell on Wednesday, Belgian designer Glenn Martens will showcase his premiere collection for Maison Margiela, following his appointment in January to replace John Galliano.

American designer Michael Rider, who succeeded Hedi Slimane at Celine, recently unveiled his inaugural collection for the luxury French brand outside of the main schedule.

Notable Absences

On Tuesday, Chanel will reveal the last collection designed by its in-house studio, marking the fifth since Virginie Viard’s unexpected exit in June 2024.

Matthieu Blazy, a discreet yet respected Franco-Belgian designer, was appointed as her successor in December and will showcase his first collection for Chanel in October.

By Thursday, a total of 27 houses will unveil their collections, including Elie Saab, Armani Privé, Aelis, Viktor & Rolf, Adeline Andre, and Dubai’s Rami Al Ali, who is poised to be the first Syrian designer to join the official calendar.

Despite significant changes among fashion houses, some absences will catch attention, particularly Dior’s. Following a much-anticipated debut at Men’s Fashion Week on June 27, newly appointed artistic director Jonathan Anderson has decided to hold back his first haute couture collection until January 2026.

Additionally, Dutch designer Duran Lantink, who became the permanent artistic director of Jean Paul Gaultier in April, will introduce his collection during Women’s Fashion Week in October. After stepping away in 2020, Gaultier entrusted his couture line to various guest designers.

The week will culminate with a show from Swiss designer Kevin Germanier. What designs are you most excited to see this Haute Couture Week?